A testament to America’s rich numismatic heritage, the Morgan Silver Dollar captures the essence of our nation’s history and artistry.
Collectors and historians alike treasure this coin, which was minted between 1878 and 1904.
Design and Origins
As a result of the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, the Morgan Silver Dollar was introduced, requiring the US Treasury to purchase large quantities of silver.
As designed by George T. Morgan, a British engraver who joined the U.S. Mint, it depicts Lady Liberty on the obverse, adorned with a Phrygian cap and a crown made of cotton and wheat.
In the reverse, a majestic eagle clutches arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace, with its wings outstretched.
Mint Marks and Locations of Minting
Morgan Silver Dollars were produced by several mints across the United States, each with its own unique mint mark:
| Mint Location | Mint Mark | Years of Production |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | None | 1878–1904, 1921 |
| New Orleans | O | 1879–1904 |
| San Francisco | S | 1878–1904, 1921 |
| Carson City | CC | 1878–1885, 1889–1893 |
| Denver | D | 1921 |
Due to its limited mintage and historical significance, the Carson City Mint produces some of the most sought-after Morgan Dollars.
Dates and rarities of interest
Morgan Silver Dollars are widely available, but certain dates and mint marks are considered rare and command higher prices:
- In uncirculated condition, this coin is highly sought after due to its limited mintage of 756,000.
- As the “King of the Morgan Dollars,” the 1889-CC has a limited mintage of 350,000, making it extremely valuable.
- The 1893-S Morgan Dollar has the lowest mintage, making it the most valuable of the series.
Value-influencing factors
Several factors influence the value of a Morgan Silver Dollar:
- Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher grades indicating better preservation.
- A coin’s rarity and value are typically increased by a lower mintage number.
- As a result of their historical context and limited production, certain mint marks, such as “CC” for Carson City, are more desirable than others.
- The popularity of coin collecting and current market trends can affect a coin’s value.
Commemorative Issues of the Modern Era
In recent years, the U.S. Mint has issued modern commemorative versions of the Morgan Silver Dollar:
- During the 100th anniversary of the transition from the Morgan to the Peace Dollar, the Mint released special issues of both coins.
- In 2024, the Mint will release proof and uncirculated versions of the Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars, continuing their legacy.
Tip Collection
Morgan Silver Dollar collectors should know the following:
- The value of Morgan Dollars makes counterfeits possible. verify authenticity, you should purchase from reputable dealers and consider third-party grading services.
- Protective holders can prevent tarnishing and damage when properly stored in a cool, dry place.
- Make informed collecting decisions by researching the coin’s history, key dates, and variations.
America’s rich history and craftsmanship are embodied by the Morgan Silver Dollar. The intricate design of this coin, along with its storied past, makes it a timeless treasure in the world of numismatics.
